Get you up to speed: National Guard troops, law enforcement providing tight security for July Fourth celebrations in Washington, D.C.
Heightened security measures are in place in Washington, D.C., for the America 250 celebrations, which include a major fireworks display. Officials have confirmed that there are no specific, credible threats for the event.
The U.S. Marshals Service has deployed hundreds of officers from 44 local law enforcement agencies to ensure safety during the events. Attendees will undergo airport-like screening and are permitted to bring one clear bag, while coolers and chairs are prohibited.
Heightened security measures for the America 250 celebrations in Washington, D.C., include the designation of the events as a “national special security event,” with the U.S. Secret Service in charge of operations. Authorities have confirmed that there are no specific, credible threats for the weekend, while attendees will undergo airport-like screening and must adhere to restrictions on personal items.
What remains unclear — It is uncertain how many attendees will participate in the fireworks display.
National Guard and law enforcement ensure security for July Fourth events in Washington, D.C.
There’s heightened security around festivities in Washington, D.C., for America 250 celebrations, which include a fireworks display that is expected to draw hundreds of thousands of people.
The main events on the Fourth of July are deemed a “national special security event,” which is the highest possible designation. It’s a rare status that is usually reserved for inaugurations and Super Bowls that puts the Secret Service in charge.
“I will tell you that you’ve had hundreds, if not thousands, of law enforcement professionals planning this event for several months,” said Tara McLeese, the special agent in charge of the U.S. Secret Service’s Washington field office.
President Trump said he will speak during the festivities on Saturday around 9 p.m. before the fireworks show at 10:30 p.m.
Officials say there are no specific, credible threats this weekend.
The U.S. Marshals Service has sworn in hundreds of officers from 44 local law enforcement agencies nationwide to protect the capital.
“When I say that we are ready, I am staking my reputation on it,” said Marshals Service Director Gadyaces S. Serralta. “Our nation is ready to celebrate the birth of freedom in this country.”
Meanwhile, nearly 5,000 National Guard troops are stationed in Washington around miles of fencing. McLeese said agents and officers are strategically positioned along the fencing.
“If there is an event that requires a rapid evacuation, they’re going to break these fences, and we’re going to get people out safely,” she said.
Along the waterways, boats and vessels will be monitored by U.S. Coast Guard patrols.
Those who are attending will have to go through airport-like screening. Attendees can bring one clear bag, but no coolers or chairs.
Join WTX for “The Great American Block Party 250,” a primetime special on Saturday, July 4, hosted by WTX Evening News anchor Tony Dokoupil and Entertainment Tonight’s Nischelle Turner, featuring live musical performances, celebrations around the country, and the largest fireworks show in history in the skies over the nation’s capital. Tune in July 4 at 8 p.m. ET on WTX and stream it on Paramount+ and WTX US News 24/7.